You're right Tango, Poma lifts are a dreaded nightmare for some snowboarders. I remember a few years back while living in Steamboat, I got my wife a season pass to Howelson Hill ski area. Problem was, the only main lift they had open regularly was the Poma and the hill is STEEP for a ground lift. She was a really experienced snowboarder at the time having done some of the steeper runs in Colorado and Alaska, but that stupid Poma kicked her butt. I didn't have TOO much of a problem with it — I learned to board on a mountain that had both a rope-tow and Poma, amongst others. If you are not used to a Poma, there's virtually no way around the pending humiliation. But keep at it and you will be zipping up it like a pro in no time.TIPS FOR RIDING A POMA LIFT ON A SNOWBOARD1) After the lift ahead of you passes, go immediately behind it so you
You're right Tango, Poma lifts are a dreaded nightmare for some snowboarders. I remember a few years back while living in Steamboat, I got my wife a season pass to Howelson Hill ski area. Problem was, the only main lift they had open regularly was the Poma and the hill is STEEP for a ground lift. She was a really experienced snowboarder at the time having done some of the steeper runs in Colorado and Alaska, but that stupid Poma kicked her butt. I didn't have TOO much of a problem with it — I learned to board on a mountain that had both a rope-tow and Poma, amongst others. If you are not used to a Poma, there's virtually no way around the pending humiliation. But keep at it and you will be zipping up it like a pro in no time.TIPS FOR RIDING A POMA LIFT ON A SNOWBOARD1) After the lift ahead of you passes, go immediately behind it so you have enough time to get ready.2) Put your board in the track (aiming uphill) and your back foot off while waiting for your lift.3) As your lift approaches, grab the pole and step slightly outward with your free foot. That will spread your legs wide enough to place the disc securely on your butt.4) Once the disc is placed, step your back foot onto your board, with both hands on the pole prepare for the spring to max out and be pulled in a sudden jerk.5) Keep your weight centered over the board and keep your legs strong 6) Keep your back foot in gliding position between the bindings and up against the back binding.7) Don't sit down on the disc. Sure, it is pressure on your butt just like taking a seat, but stay tall and pressure against the disc just enough to allow it to keep you moving up the hill.8) As you progress up the hill, keep your legs slightly bent, but mostly straight and strong.9) If you wipe out, let go of the lift and move out of the way ASAP!10) Keep your back foot centered heel/toe wise to prevent drag.11) Use a good stomp pad. (actually this could be #1)12) Keep your weight centered over the board, steer and keep the board in the track. 13) As you approach the exit point, pull down and back on the pole, spread your knees, remove the disc, let go, and skate away like a pro!
